Cork Adds Most Value to Economy

23rd Aug 2006

Cork Adds Most Value to Economy
Danny Elbow

The Peoples Republic, the Axis of Laziness and a black hole.

Research conducted by the Central Statistics Office has revealed that despite the common perception that Dublin, being the capital of the 26 counties and having the highest income per head of population, creates most of the country's wealth, it is in fact Cork that is propping up the country financially.

The CSO used a measurement called GVA (Gross Value Added) to measure the contribution of the citizens of each county to the economy. This was done by recording the total value of all products produced in each county hence revealing the overall value of that county to the state. In other words, a firm judgment on who is really driving the so called 'Celtic Tiger' and who are the biggest freeloaders.

The average Irish person contributes an average value of EUR31,396 to the economy. Incredibly, and as most Corkonians should have suspected, citizens of the People's Republic actually contribute most to the Irish economy with a GVA of EUR41,129. A whopping 31% above the average GVA!! This raises serious questions about Cork's role in the 26 counties. Getting money for nothing from Corkonians certainly shows up the Irish 'Free' State alright! Even Dubs have it easy - despite wages being 13% higher than the average income, the cost of living is only 3% higher.

Are we happy propping up a regime where Corkonians are forced to make up the shortfall? Are you happy about the fact that your taxes are building motorways in Laois, traffic lights in Longford or stocking the Westmeath and Offaly County Council canteens with club milks and kit-kats?

Cash money yo: if you've got the highest GVA put y'hands up.

These are Ireland's four laziest counties who contribute a GVA per person far below the average. In our (humble) opinion the economy should be renamed the 'Rebel Tiger' and not the self congratulatory 'Celtic Tiger' as promoted by Dublin based economists.

When you consider the fact that the government is now considering dumping a burdensome debt on Cork Airport and has pulled funding for major infrastructural projects like the Wilton and Bishopstown flyovers, one has to consider very seriously the bizarre situation in which we now find ourselves.

Why should Corkonians be forced to pay tax for projects like the e-voting disaster, Luas and the Dublin Port Tunnel when we're denied our own basic needs? You only have to look at the banner at the top of this page to know what our opinion is - lets get out while the going is good.